Mill Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mill Creek, located in Lincoln, Oregon, is a vital water supply reservoir with a capacity of 250 acre-feet and a surface area of 15.8 acres.


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Summary

The dam, constructed in 1969, stands at a height of 70 feet and serves the primary purpose of water supply. Managed by the local government and regulated by the Oregon Water Resources Department, Mill Creek is a key asset in the region's water infrastructure.

With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Mill Creek presents a moderate risk level (3) that requires ongoing monitoring and management. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a history of safe operations and regular inspections, with the most recent assessment conducted in August 2020. The surrounding area relies on Mill Creek for water security, making it essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to stay informed about its maintenance and risk mitigation strategies.

As a significant water source in the Portland District, Mill Creek plays a crucial role in supporting the local community's water needs. Its location in Toledo, Oregon, highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in maintaining the reservoir's integrity. For those passionate about water conservation and environmental sustainability, Mill Creek serves as a case study in balancing water supply demands with infrastructure safety and regulatory compliance.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

70

River Or Stream

MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15.8

Hydraulic Height

68

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

250

Structural Height

74

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

74
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.